Bloodmobile visits Jan.23

January has been designated National Blood Donor Month to raise awareness of blood donation during the time of the year when blood supplies often fall to their lowest levels.

Donations traditionally decline during the post-holiday season, due to busy schedules and inclement weather, which can prevent people from keeping donation appointments. At the same time, the need for blood remains constant in the early months of the year.

Giving blood is a way to support the community by helping to ensure that a stable inventory is available for premature babies, cancer patients, or the many people who suffer accidents and other illnesses which may require transfusions.

Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days, and must be continually replenished. Donors can give blood every 56 days, or up to six times a year.

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All eligible donors are asked to schedule an appointment to donate blood on Jan.23 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hood River Armory